Spring Break is here and the island is swarming with people. Local watering holes are gearing up for a big weekend, and there’s going to be lots of live music. If you’re going out, you’ll have plenty of choices, so just check out the bulletin boards and signs in front of Ocracoke’s many live music venues.

Wednesday brings us another round of Pub Trivia at Gaffer’s – it’s $1 to play and the festivities begin at 7 pm. Congrats to Fish ‘n’ Chicks for a two-week winning streak!

If it seems a little quiet around Ocracoke School, it’s because the middle and high school kids are on a week-long camping trip to Pocahontas State Park in Richmond, VA. The pre-K through 5th graders who were left behind are also having a great week: Arts Week!

Arts Week is an annual event coordinated by Ocracoke School art teacher Kitty Mitchell. Ms Kitty brings in an array of visual artists, artisans, and performing artists to do special projects with the students. This week they’re doing fiber arts with Kim Meacham, drumming with Jubal Creech, music with Bob Zentz, and dance with Carlita Ector.  The public is invited to the Arts Week Assembly at the school gym on Friday at 10 am. Come out to see what the kids have been learning!

This week is also Holy Week, for those who observe it, and the Methodist Church is holding services Maundy Thursday at 7 pm, on Good Friday at Noon, and the Easter Celebration on Sunday at 11 am.

The Methodist Church joins with the Assembly of God Church for an Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 am Sunday morning at the lifeguard beach.

Another annual treat is the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, sponsored by the Methodist Church. Bring the little ones out for a good time. It’s starts at 11 am sharp – don’t be late, it’s over in minutes! Ocracoke kids are fast!

Also on Saturday is a book signing at Books to Be Red. Come out between 3:30 – 4:30 pm to meet Pat Garber, author of several books, the most recent being Heart Like a River, about her great-grandfather’s experiences fighting with General Lee in the Civil War.

Saturday night brings the Ocrafolk Festival Fundraiser Concert at 7:30 pm at the Ocracoke Community Center. Local musicians and storytellers will entertain and delight the audience. Admission is $15 for adults and $7 for kids and all proceeds benefit the Ocrafolk Festival scheduled for June 1 – 3.

And in case you haven't noticed, the wisteria's in bloom. It doesn't last long, but it makes me so happy while it's here. Best spots on the island are the yards at Thurston House B and B on Hwy. 12 and Natural Selections Hemp Shop on School Road. Welcome, spring!